The family plays a major role in our lives, and for many expats living in the UAE, the opportunity to bring its loved ones together is a top priority. One of the major benefits for expats working in the UAE is the option to sponsor its relatives through the UAE family visa.

The UAE family visa allows residents to bring their spouse, children and even parents, ensuring that the family can live together in the country taking maximum advantage of lifestyle and opportunities in the country. In recent times, the UAE has updated its family visa rules, including the process of changing minimum wage requirements and sponsoring dependents. It is also important for someone to reunite with your family to be aware of these updated terms and conditions so that the process is smooth, stress free.

In this guide, we will discuss the UAE Family Visa - who is eligible, how to apply, the costs involved and what to expect during the application process.

How to Apply for a UAE Family Visa

The process of applying for a family visa in the UAE may vary slightly depending on your status and the Emirates. However, here is to follow the common stages you need to follow:

1. Prepare All The Necessary Documents

Collect all important papers as a marriage certificate (for spouse), birth certificate (for children), pay certificate, lease, passport copies and Emirates ID. Be sure to notarize the documents if necessary.

2. Apply for Emirates ID

Submit your family member’s Emirates ID application at a typing centre or via the ICA/Emirates ID website.

3. Apply For Entry Permit

Visit an authorized typing center or search online via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or identification, citizenship, customs and port security (ICP).

Submit a request for entry permits for your family members. Once the authority approves it, they can enter the UAE.

4. Medical Fitness Test

When your family members arrive in the UAE, take them to an approved health center for a medical fitness test. This test checks for diseases like HIV and tuberculosis. You must have a clear medical report to continue the visa process.

5. Visa Stamping on Passport

When the residential visa is approved, go to the GDRFA office (if in Dubai) or in another Emirates to get the visa stamped of the passport to your family member.

You can also opt for stamping through an approved service centre.

6. Collect Emirates ID

After stamping your residency visa, you will receive a notification when your Emirates ID is ready. You can collect it from a designated Emirates ID center or have it delivered by courier.

7. Submit Residency Visa Application

Apply for a residency visa online or at an authorised typing centre. Attach the required documents including the medical fitness report and Emirates ID application slip.

Family Visa UAE Rules And Requirements

In the UAE, residents with a valid visa can include family members, such as their spouse, children and parents under certain conditions.

Fathers And Mothers:

A father earning at least AED 4,000 per month (or AED 3,000 and accommodation provided) can sponsor his wives and children. If they meet some requirements set by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), mothers can also sponsor their children.

To Sponsor Children:

Parents can sponsor sons up to the age of 25, while unmarried daughters can be sponsored without any age limit. Children with special needs can also be sponsored, regardless of their age.

To Sponsor Parents:

Residents can sponsor their parents for one year if they prove that they are their sole provider and also meet the necessary financial criteria.

Additionally, the type of business the sponsor does no longer determines eligibility for a family visa. Fathers residing in the UAE have the right to sponsor their children, while mothers cannot do so under these rules.

Documents Required For a Family Visa in the UAE 2025

You can submit your family's visa application through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) portal. The process is simple, convenient, and allows you to check the progression of your application at any time. The documents required for family members are according to the official residency visa guidelines.

• Copy of sponsor’s residency visa

• Copies of passports of both sponsor and dependents

• Sponsor’s Emirates ID

• Ezari rental agreement or proof of residence

• Certified birth certificates (for sponsored children)

• Certified marriage certificate (for sponsor’s spouse)

• Recent passport-sized photographs of dependents

• Medical fitness test report for dependents over 18 years of age

• Latest salary certificate or work contract

Family Visa Cost UAE

The cost of a UAE family visa varies depending on the visa category and associated service charges. Below is a clear breakdown:

Benefits of a Family Visa in the UAE

A family visa in the UAE offers you and your loved ones many valuable benefits. Below are some examples:

Stay Close to Your Family: The UAE offers expatriates the best opportunity to live in the same country with their family. This is made possible by the Golden 5-year Family Visa in the UAE.

Extended Residency: The 10-year Golden Family Visa offers more long-term residency benefits than others. This visa does not require renewal every two years.

Long-Term Stay Outside The UAE: Families can stay outside the UAE for up to 6 months without worrying about their visa being cancelled.

DBS Group Simplifies The Process of Bringing Your Family to The UAE.

Bringing your family into the United Arab Emirates can help you enjoy a happy and more supportive life. With the recent updates of family visa rules, sponsoring your loved ones has become much easier than ever, whether you live here or run a business in the country.

When you sponsor your family, you not only create a strong support system, but also experience the welcome community that has to offer. Understanding the visa process in detail makes the journey very easy.

If you are planning to bring your family here or need help in setting up your business in Dubai, then the DBS business setup group is ready to help. Our experienced team will help you at every stage of the visa process, ensuring that everything goes smoothly.